A Journey Into Introspection
We live in a world of fast pace that gives us feelings of speed and anxiety, which practically forces us to focus our attention outwards, without wasting moments to look inwards. What does introspection reveal?
The term “introspection” has been the subject of many questions and controversies in the fields of philosophy and psychology.
Even in ancient Greece, Plato asked himself:
“Why should we not calmly and patiently go through our own thoughts and carefully examine and see what these appearances in us really are?”
Introspection was something that was compared to perception and memory. But what does the term really mean? Introspection is a mental process through which a person looks inward and can analyze their own experiences.
The person thus performs self-observation of his own conscious processes (private thoughts, mental facts or phenomenal things), which one can learn about to a greater extent.
It would thus mean that introspection is actually the reflexive capacity of the mind to refer to or become aware of its own states.
Introspection is subjective because it is the individual himself who observes himself, based on his own assessments and perception of reality.
In this context , it would really be impossible to approach the subject objectively because it is a subject that has to do with oneself.
It also has a certain tendency to develop because we take ourselves as a goal for analysis, in addition to shouldering the role of observer or investigator.
The introspective process is complex and requires training if you want to achieve good results. You must also have a good attitude – one of acceptance and sincerity – and not let yourself be swept away by a web of self-deception.
Exercising introspection begins with being attentive and listening to oneself.
In all situations that are presented to you or that you become involved in, it is best to stop for a moment and examine your inner state, observe it and connect with your emotions.
When we take the time to observe and accept our inner state, we can have much better attention to the situation than if we allow ourselves to be swept away by our first impulse.
This complex process leads us to reflect deeply on who we are, how we feel and what we have learned, in addition to offering the opportunity to move forward in our spiritual development.
Introspection helps us see what is good for us and provides us with the tools needed to change situations and move forward in a happy way.
It is very important to stop every day and take a breath, no matter where you are or what you do. Focus your attention on yourself, your being and your essence by connecting with the silence and learning to listen to yourself.
With that said , introspection has both positive and negative aspects, which can be used to improve yourself and move on in life.
It is a useful method of approaching one’s psychic reality, which provides the basis for your personal stability and enables deeper exploration of your being and the ability to make changes.
Introspection helps us not only to get to know ourselves better, but also to respect, love and accept ourselves as we are.
Eckhart Tolle had some very powerful words to add on this topic:
Photo by Emerald Wake.
